The -owie suffix for titles and family
In Polish, masculine personal (virile) nouns in the nominative plural usually end in -i or -y. However, a select group of nouns takes the special suffix -owie. This group generally includes terms of respect, such as close family members, leadership roles, and esteemed professions.
When a noun contains a mobile e in its final syllable, such as the word członek (member), that e drops out when adding the plural suffix, becoming członkowie.
| Since the commission has a new plan, all members must come to the meeting. | Ponieważ komisja ma nowy plan, wszyscy członkowie muszą przyjść na spotkanie. |
| These husbands and fathers are the new members of our club. | Ci mężowie i ojcowie to nowi członkowie naszego klubu. |
Military and government roles
You will frequently see the -owie suffix used for high-ranking government officials and military ranks, such as ministers, generals, and officers.
| All ministers are discussing the new project today. | Wszyscy ministrowie dyskutują dzisiaj o nowym projekcie. |
| These generals and officers have been working here for a very long time. | Ci generałowie i oficerowie pracują tu bardzo długo. |
Politicians and the mobile "e"
Senators and members of parliament also belong to this group. Just like członek, the noun poseł (member of parliament) drops its mobile e to become posłowie in the plural.
| the member of parliament (m) | poseł |
| Our senators and members of parliament must vote today. | Nasi senatorowie i posłowie muszą dzisiaj głosować. |
International and local leadership
The rule naturally extends to other political and diplomatic leaders, regardless of whether they serve at the local or international level.
| Did these ambassadors bring us important news? | Czy ci ambasadorowie przynieśli nam ważne wiadomości? |
| All mayors in this country are organizing elections now. | Wszyscy burmistrzowie w tym kraju organizują teraz wybory. |
Academics and heroes
Finally, figures of historical importance and high esteem—such as philosophers and heroes—take the -owie suffix to show respect.
| Famous philosophers very often wrote thick books. | Znani filozofowie bardzo często pisali grube książki. |
| Our fathers and husbands are true heroes. | Nasi ojcowie i mężowie to prawdziwi bohaterowie. |